An Assessment of the Contribution of an Analog Forest as a Sustainable Land-use Ecosystem for the Development of Rural Green Economy in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Large scale clearing of natural forests for human settlements as well as in the form of tea, rubber and cinnamon plantations resulted forest fragmentation in most natural ecosystems in the wet zone of Sri Lanka which posed massive threats to both nature and the humans including the loss of biodiversity, environmental hazards and increasing poverty. This paper discusses about the potential to develop rural green economy as a result of consolidating these agricultural lands into analog forests as a sustainable land use practice. Bangamukande Estate, a man-made analog forest in Galle District was selected for this assessment. Participatory rural appraisal methods were used to obtain information on resource utilization by the local community in nearby villages. Secondary data of the long term analog forestry establishment programme were also used for analysis the livelihood changes of the people due to the impacts this system. Various interventions had been made to address the issues such as encouraging local farmers to cultivate timber, fruits, spices and medicinal plants, paying them for the environmental services they render and enhancing their income through green employment. The introduction of new sustainable agricultural activities such as bee keeping and planting fruits resulted in the production of value added farm products and organic fruits to be sold in the market. Through environmental based tourism activities such as providing food and accommodation, eco-guidance, and assisting environmental research, the stakeholders are earning a better income supporting the development of a green economy in the country.